From department store decor, to red and pink fashion trends, to my lovely Pinterest feed, it seems like everyone’s itching for Valentine’s Day to get here as much as I am.

Valentine’s Day to me isn’t about flower bouquets and expensive dinners; this day gives me a chance to tell all the loves of my life — from my sisters to my dog — how much they mean to me. In the craziness that is our daily lives, taking the time to tell others how much they mean to us can sometimes be overlooked or taken for granted. It’s important for all of us to make time to tell the gems in our life that they are just that.

Now, after reading my ramblings, you might be thinking that I’m one mushy-gushy gal (which I admit, I am!), but when it comes to your happiness, it truly is the people that surround you who make your life complete. And hopefully, once you get the hang of honoring those important people on Valentine’s Day, these random acts of loveliness will happen more often than once a year. Because the way I see it, V-Day should be every day.

So how will you express yourself this Valentine’s Day? That is completely up to you 🙂 But as always, I am here to get you thinking of the perfect ways to do so. Here is what I’m doing this year for a few of my Valentines.

My favorite gift to give others is a thoughtful note paired with some sweets. One of my go-to recipes that’s both low cost and amazingly easy is the popular Pretzel, Hershey’s Kiss, and Peanut M & M’s treat. These delicious snacks never fail to put a smile on my friends’/family’s/coworkers’ faces, because they really are that good. I’ve decided to get creative with this recipe, and added Valentine’s Day-themed toppings for a special touch of “me.”

STEP 2: Preheat oven to 350°. While you’re waiting, line an oven-safe pan with aluminum foil, and lay out pretzels in rows on top of the pan.

STEP 3: In a separate bowl, unwrap your Hershey’s Hugs. Place one Hug on top of each pretzel.

STEP 4: Place your pan in the oven for 30 to 60 seconds until the Hugs are soft to the touch, but not completely melted. Be careful that you don’t keep the Hugs in the oven for too long or they’ll burn and taste funny.

STEP 5: Once out of the oven, quickly (the chocolate hardens fast!) place/squish/sprinkle your Valentine’s day decor on top of your Hugs.

STEP 6: Let your pretzel treats cool, and pop them in the refrigerator to allow them to set completely.

And Voila! You have yourself the most adorable, salty-sweet treats in about 15 minutes or less!

For presentation, I grabbed a few inexpensive items from WalMart, and placed some treats in mini cupcake holders. Others I served on my beloved “You are Special Today” plate for any visitors; this plate has been a tradition in my family for as long as I can remember.

I wanted to give my mom a special batch, along with this ADORABLE pair of red polka dotted reading glasses that she’s been eyeing for months, so I bought this cute heart bag to hold the treats and glasses.

See, Valentine’s Day gestures can be small, inexpensive, and completely meaningful. And don’t count out simply using your words to tell them how you feel, either. Get creative, trust in your crafting abilities, and have fun with it 🙂